Introduction
What if you could take all the mouthwatering flavors of a Philly cheesesteak and transform them into a hearty, comforting meatloaf? Well, that’s exactly what this Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf does! Combining seasoned ground beef, melty provolone cheese, and a savory glaze, this dish is an irresistible twist on a classic. Whether you’re a meatloaf enthusiast or a cheesesteak lover, this recipe is bound to become a new favorite.
1. What is Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf?
Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf is a creative fusion of two classic dishes: the all-American meatloaf and the beloved Philly cheesesteak. It takes all the signature elements—beef, onions, peppers, mushrooms, and provolone cheese—and packs them into a flavorful loaf that’s baked to perfection.
2. Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make this irresistible dish:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup bread crumbs
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup diced green pepper
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup provolone cheese, sliced
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon mustard
3. Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine ground beef, bread crumbs, egg, milk, onion, green pepper, mushrooms, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
- Press half of the meat mixture into a loaf pan.
- Layer provolone cheese slices over the meat, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Add the remaining meat mixture on top and press the edges to seal.
- Whisk together beef broth, ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Pour over the meatloaf.
- Bake for 1 hour or until fully cooked.
- Rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
4. Why This Recipe Works
- Ultimate Comfort Food: It combines the best of both worlds—cheesesteak and meatloaf.
- Cheesy, Juicy Goodness: Provolone cheese creates a rich, gooey center.
- Savory Glaze: The tangy-sweet topping balances the meaty richness.
5. Pro Tips for the Best Meatloaf
- Use fresh breadcrumbs instead of dry for better texture.
- Don’t overmix the meat to keep it tender.
- Let it rest before slicing to retain juiciness.
6. Variations and Substitutions
- Swap ground beef for turkey for a lighter option.
- Try Swiss or American cheese instead of provolone.
- Add hot sauce or jalapeños for a spicy kick.
7. What to Serve with Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf
- Mashed potatoes for a classic pairing.
- Steamed green beans for a healthier touch.
- Toasted hoagie rolls for a sandwich-style serving.
8. How to Store and Reheat
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Wrap in plastic and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 325°F until heated through.
9. Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the beef can make it tough.
- Skipping the rest time causes dryness.
- Not sealing the cheese layer can lead to leaks.
10. FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes! Swiss, mozzarella, or American cheese all work great.
2. What type of beef is best for meatloaf?
Use 80/20 ground beef for the perfect balance of flavor and moisture.
3. Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble it, refrigerate overnight, and bake when ready.
4. How do I prevent my meatloaf from falling apart?
Make sure to use enough breadcrumbs and egg to bind everything together.
5. Can I cook this in an air fryer?
Yes! Cook at 350°F for about 40 minutes, checking for doneness.
This Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf is a delicious and creative take on two beloved comfort foods. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special meal, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Try it out and let us know how it turns out!